Did you know that most sinus conditions are often due to bacterial infections? Yes, more so, they tend to clear once their full course is over. Then, using non-prescription drugs, nasal corticosteroids, or saline sprayers work to relieve the symptoms until the inflammation subsides.

Still, rare cases exist.

When Is Surgery Needed?

It is subject to the underlying cause.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that results in nasal congestion, headaches, runny nose, and overall discomfort. It occurs when the cavities surrounding the nasal passages are inflamed. The inflammation may be due to: –

• A bacterial, fungal, or viral infection
• Polyps developing on the sinus linings
• Hypersensitivity
• Nasal septum deviation

When your relief strategies fail, it is prudent to consult your doctor. He will assess and refer you to a specialist for further attention.

But, when you are struggling with polyps, nasal septum deviation, or any other symptom related to the nasal structure, surgery is your best option.

Sinus surgery strives to address these symptoms and inflammation. For, recurrent symptoms indicate a structural issue with your nasal cavity that calls for surgical intervention.

Surgery facilitates easy breathing through the nose. It also restores any loss of taste or smell due to sinusitis.

Types of Surgery

Then, should you opt for surgery, you have several options. They include getting an endoscopy or a balloon sinuplasty.

1. Endoscopy

The nasal endoscopy is a popular procedure whereby the doctor inserts an endoscope into the nose to examine it. The endoscope comprises slim, flexible tubes with a light and a camera lens. This way, it relays the captured images to a screen for the doctor to see. Then, if the doctor notices any blockages on the sinuses, he uses these appropriate devices to get rid of the underlying cause. That is the scar tissue, polyps, and the like.

There are no incisions made during the nasal endoscopy procedure. Instead, the doctor numbs the area. He then performs the method in one appointment. Hence, it is a fast, easy, and painless technique.

2. Balloon sinuplasty

Now, the balloon sinuplasty works well in instances where there is nothing to remove from the nasal passages.

Hence, the doctor will insert the slim tube through the nasal passage. At one end of the device is a small balloon that the doctor guides to reach the blocked section of the nose. Once there, she will inflate the balloon to clear the passage. That way, the sinuses will drain with ease, leaving you feeling less congested.

Surgery Risks

The above methods pause minimal risks. Still, you have to be cautious against getting tissue inflammation or trauma. In rare scenarios, the procedure may cause eye or brain injury.

Then, as always, consult your doctor before going for any procedure. She will inform you of the benefits and risks to expect. Further, you can seek a second opinion when you are still not satisfied.

After Surgery

The duration of the surgical procedure will determine whether you will need the nasal packing afterward. That is, after the surgery, the doctor may have to place some absorbent materials into the nasal passages to absorb any blood or fluids. He will remove them at your next appointment. Or, he may place dissolvable materials that end on their own.

Then, after the surgery, keep in mind this:

• Use an extra pillow to keep your head rose when you sleep.
• Never blow your nose for at least a week after the surgery.
• If you sneeze, do it with your mouth wide open. It will keep the pressure off the nasal cavities.

In a few days, the symptoms will reduce, making you feel much better.

Note that, the sinus surgery is not a permanent cure for sinusitis. It is only part of the plan to treat the infection. Indeed, this infection can recur in the future. Even so, the doctor may recommend you continue with your relief techniques coupled with using antibiotics for a total recovery.

Then, surgery is vital in helping you breathe better, even though it may not cure sinus problems.